Airport News
Akron-Canton Airport Scores Major Aircraft During Big Sports Weekend
Sports fans flooded the Akron-Canton Airport’s (CAK) Hug Zone this past week in anticipation of the biggest sports weekend in Northeast Ohio. While fans awaiting their favorite athlete were front and center, the real action was behind the scenes.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival lands on the same weekend as the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational, making for one of the busiest weeks of the year for CAK. AvFlight and McKinley Air, the fixed base operators (FBO), which provide aeronautical services including fueling, hangering and parking for general aviation, were especially busy.
Between August 1-6, 2017, private aircraft made up 231 of the 400 landings at CAK. Two of the most anticipated aircraft were the American Airlines’ 777 and Atlas Air 747. The 747 is the largest aircraft to ever land at CAK.
“We serviced well over 150 aircraft and hosted elite athletes, golfers, VIPs and entertainers who were visiting for the Bridgestone Invitational and Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement,” said Eric Berg, General Manager of AvFlight Akron-Canton Corporation. “It was a 24/7 logistical challenge, but arrivals and departures were flawless.”
At one point, 54 aircraft were parked on AvFlight's ramp – the most ever. This was more than double the previous record number of 22 during the 2016 Enshrinement Weekend.
“As an integral part of the community, we can’t help but to share in the excitement of this big sports week,” said Rick McQueen, President and CEO of the Akron-Canton Airport. “The airport’s operations team worked harmoniously with the fixed base operators to create an enjoyable, convenient experience for our out of town guests. We’re very proud to be the first to welcome so many visitors to the area.”
Check out photos from the big sports weekend at CAK here.
